A word from the CNUE's President in 2010

The beginning of a presidential term is always full of good intentions and ideas. However, we often forget that each President is linked to his or her predecessor and that the strength of an institution resides in his or her values and in his or her organisation.

So I am pleased to begin this 'word from the President 2010' by praising the work of the Presidents who came before me, every one of them having contributed ideas and activities, and the great passion of our structure which is still attentive and close to the preoccupations of the moment.

2010 is a year of renewal for the Parliament and the European Commission. Major projects are underway in the legal field, such as the draft regulation on successions and the creation of a European certificate of succession, the study on matrimonial property regimes and unions, the development of e-Justice and more.

The European notariat wishes to strengthen collaborative relations, as it has always remained close to the authorities of the European Union. It is a case of making our voice heard, that is to say, representing our legal culture, the fact that we are part of the legal system of our various countries, exercising a generalised service controlling legality in favour of citizens, families and businesses.

I believe that rendering written law practicable and ensuring that it is practiced is the notary's job, as the notary is the professional who is closest to citizens. There are eight million citizens living in a country different to their country of origin. Each year, 350 000 marriages take place between citizens of different States and the number of cross-border divorces stands at 170 000 (namely, 20% of divorces registered in Europe). Around 2.5 million properties belong to individuals living in countries different from where the properties are located. Lastly, there are 450 000 successions of an international nature per year for 123 billion euro worth of properties. In this context, the Notariat's collaboration is, in my opinion, very useful as it contributes to rendering Community legislation practicable (and therefore effective).

The European notariat must be conscious of its national and international role. But I believe, nevertheless, that it is more and more essential to share between us our practical and cultural experiences, in order to, above all, understand the importance of the Community legislation within our national legal systems and, therefore, within our daily activity.

Also, we must make every effort to exalt the points which we have in common and bridge the gaps which are too wide in relation to our competences. This is exactly the kind of spirit which must unite and guide European citizens, and, a fortiori, the professionals who serve them.

With pride and privilege to be at the head of a professional category carrying great values, I would like my European colleagues to know of my wishes for my activity at their service to follow a virtuous path in our public and private common interests.

Lastly, I hope that I succeed in developing between us a major unity of purpose in leading a strong and shared representative body.

Roberto Barone
CNUE President

German version

Italian version

• A word from the CNUE's President in 2009
• A word from the CNUE's President in 2008
• A word from the CNUE's President in 2007
• A word from the CNUE's President in 2006
• A word from the CNUE's President in 2005
• A word from the CNUE's President in 2004
• A word from the CNUE's President in 2003